It has been an eventful year for KD Autoparts — as they prepare to mark their 19th birthday, marking almost two decades of excellence in looking after your cars, but they were also recognized for their contribution to preserving the Irish language with their nomination in the 2018 Gradam awards.

The nomination recognized their use of gaeilge in their business when they were selected as finalists in the prestigious business awards, which culminated last month with a glittering ceremony in the city.

For KD Autoparts, the award was further evidence of their commitment to excellence and service to their customers. Offering a service in Irish is just another layer of that.

They have overseen almost two decades of excellence from their first workshop on the Tuam Road, opposite where the Travelodge is located right now — they moved to Ballybane in 2008. Co-founder Gerry Duggan passed away in 2010, but the ethos of excellence he instilled in his original vision for the business, has been maintained through a talented team who have continued to make it the No 1 choice in the region.

In 1999, both Martin Kennedy and Gerry Duggan already had decades of experience behind them, having both worked in Calbro Motors and that high standard is evident in the team, led by Maureen Duggan and Martin, at KD Autoparts today.

It is vital that your vehicle is in good working order and has no defects that could embarrass you or, worse, cause your examiner to cancel your test – as they have a right to do. The best way to avoid this happening is to put together a checklist and then get along to KD Autoparts who will have everything you need to make sure your car is ship-shape.

Here are the main things to look for:

Mechanical condition — Is the car you’ll be using for the test mechanically sound? For example, is the handbrake capable of holding the car on the steepest hill in town?

Wiper blades — Renew if worn.

Brake and indicator lights — Check the indicator lenses are clean and unbroken. If these show a ‘white’ light due to a broken lens, the test will not be conducted.

‘L’ plates — Attach them front and rear so that they are clearly visible. Place where it will not hamper visibility – tax, insurance and, if applicable, NCT discs should be on the windscreen.

Windscreen washer Fill the washer bottle and use a windscreen-washer additive

Interior mirrorRemove the various paraphernalia such as air fresheners, furry toys, dice and so on –needless distractions, for you and the Driver Tester

Car body — Clean the car, in particular all windows, both inside and outside.

Clean the interior of your car

However, for any all accessories to keep you safe on the roads, get along to KD Autoparts or check their amazing range of products on www.kdautoparts.com KD Autoparts is Galway’s best one-stop-shop for all your automotive needs. They supply thousands of parts and accessories, from air filters to windscreen wiper blades.

They can source any spare car parts or contact us if you are looking for something classic. All our staff are trained experts and are happy to advise on any auto requirements.

KD Autoparts post our parts all over the Ireland, so to avail of trade price bargains delivered to you in the comfort of your home call us today on 091 778022.

Remember too that KD Autoparts offer a 10 per cent discount to students